Model for Writing a Reference Request

Letter
Summary: This handout provides several model letters for various job-search purposes including: a

reference request model, a request for further negotiations model, and a reply to a rejection model.

Contributors:Purdue OWL

Last Edited: 2010-04-25 08:54:21

February 10, 2001

Louie Lab

1234 University St.

University City, IN 12345

Dear Mr. Lab:

You will need to write a reference request letter before you create a reference sheet to distribute to potential

employers. It is meant to give the reference some warning that an employer may be contacting them. It also insures

that they have the most up-to-date information about your qualifications and education. In the first paragraph, your

primary goal is to reintroduce yourself to your potential reference. Simply give a quick review of the relationship

and situations the two of you shared. This opening should be courteous and polite. Provide a little information

about yourself. This is especially important if you have not spoken with your potential reference in some time.

State your field of study, year in school, and/or career aspirations.

Next, you should formally ask to use this person as a reference. Briefly discuss the position for which you are

applying and how the reference will be used. Will it be utilized as an addition to your resume or presented at the

interview? This information will give your reference a better understanding of the information that would be

expected from them if an employer contacted them.

Finally, close the letter with a sentence that assumes you have permission to use the reference unless you hear

otherwise. You may wish to include a self-addressed stamped card so that the person may send you an answer.

Also, include a copy of your resume with the letter. This will provide helpful information about your qualifications

and allow the reference to speak intelligently to potential employers. Thank the reference for allowing you to use

them in your job search and end with a friendly closing.

Sincerely,
Lucy Letter

123 Winner's Road

New Employee Town, PA 12345